MORACEAE

Maclura pomifera (Raf.) C.K.Schneid.

Common name: bois d'arc, horse-apple, osage-orange

Small tree

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Habit and habitat: Maclura pomifera is often found in limestone areas along creeks and rivers. Leaves are simple, and each node has a thorn. When planted in hedges, Maclura is an effective barrier.
This plant exudes a milky sap that can cause dermatitis. Close-up of thorn

click here to see pictures of the really cool fruits!

Fruits are "multiple fruits", with the individual fruits (which are achenes) completely inclosed in the fused, fleshy calyces. Horses like to eat these, but the fruits often get lodged in the horse's esophagus, and cause them to die. :-(

Maclura is diocious; this is a male inflorescence.